Busting Back Pain Myths: What Dr. Jordan Sudberg Wants You to Know
Back pain is one of the most common health complaints worldwide—but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. With so much misinformation floating around, it’s easy to fall into the trap of outdated beliefs and ineffective treatments.
To help set the record straight, we turned to Dr. Jordan Sudberg, a renowned pain management specialist known for his patient-centered, evidence-based approach to spine health. In this post, Dr. Sudberg helps debunk eight of the most common back pain myths—and what you should know instead.
Myth #1: “If you have back pain, you should stay in bed.”
Dr. Sudberg says: Wrong.
While a day or two of rest might help with acute pain, long-term bed rest can actually make back pain worse. Prolonged inactivity weakens muscles, reduces flexibility, and delays healing.
What to do instead: Gentle movement, stretching, and light activity can aid recovery. Staying mobile is key to managing most types of back pain.
Myth #2: “Back pain always means a serious injury.”
Dr. Sudberg says: Not necessarily.
Many cases of back pain are due to muscle strain, poor posture, or overuse—not serious conditions like herniated discs or fractures.
What to do instead: If the pain is persistent or severe, get it evaluated. But don’t panic—most back pain is manageable with the right care.
Myth #3: “Only older people get back pain.”
Dr. Sudberg says: Back pain doesn’t discriminate.
While age can increase risk, people of all ages—including teens and young adults—experience back pain. Sedentary lifestyles, poor ergonomics, and even stress can trigger it.
What to do instead: Focus on prevention through good posture, exercise, and back-friendly habits—regardless of your age.
Myth #4: “Lifting heavy things causes back pain.”
Dr. Sudberg says: It’s not what you lift, but how you lift it.
Poor technique, not the weight itself, is often the culprit. Bending at the waist and twisting while lifting are common causes of injury.
What to do instead: Lift with your legs, keep objects close to your body, and avoid sudden, jerky movements.
Myth #5: “You need surgery to fix back pain.”
Dr. Sudberg says: Surgery is rarely the first—or only—solution.
Most back pain improves with conservative treatments like physical therapy, injections, or lifestyle changes.
What to do instead: Explore non-surgical options first. “Surgery should be a last resort, not a first step,” says Dr. Sudberg.
Myth #6: “Back pain means you should stop exercising.”
Dr. Sudberg says: Not true—and often the opposite is helpful.
Exercise can strengthen the muscles that support your spine, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility.
What to do instead: Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and yoga can support healing and prevent future pain.
Myth #7: “If imaging shows nothing, the pain isn’t real.”
Dr. Sudberg says: Pain is real, even if it doesn’t show up on an MRI or X-ray.
Not all types of pain are visible through imaging. Muscle tension, nerve irritation, and other soft tissue issues can be missed.
What to do instead: Work with a provider who listens and evaluates your symptoms holistically—not just through scans.
Myth #8: “Once you have back pain, it never really goes away.”
Dr. Sudberg says: With the right treatment plan, many people experience full recovery.
Chronic pain may take time and patience, but it’s not a life sentence. A combination of targeted care, lifestyle adjustments, and proper education can lead to lasting relief.
What to do instead: Stay proactive, stay hopeful, and don’t settle for suffering. Healing is possible.
Final Thoughts: Trust the Facts, Not the Myths
Back pain is common—but it doesn’t have to be confusing. With expert insight from specialists like Dr. Jordan Sudberg, you can separate myth from reality and make informed choices for your health.
Whether you’re dealing with a new ache or chronic discomfort, remember: the path to relief starts with understanding your body and trusting proven strategies—not outdated advice.
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